Retrospect of the Lord’s Supper

Charles Hodge

I. Importance of this ordinance.

1. It is a historical fact that the Lord’s Supper is the middle point of the Christian life. Proof of this:

1. In its very perversion in so large a part of the Church.

2. In the practice of the purest churches, and in the experience of Christians. The reason for it is found in the fact that communion with Christ is the sum of Christian piety, and in the fact that such communion is more intimate and palpable in this service than anywhere else,

1. Because of its divine appointment for that end.

2. Because it is a conspicuous outward act, expressive and declarative of our union with the Lord Jesus as his worshippers, and as the members of his body. It is like the day of one’s espousals. It is the public celebration of our union with Christ.

II. Its nature appears from what has been said.

The Lord’s Supper is not a didactic service. Its primary design is not to instruct. It is like the ancient sacrifices in this respect. Instruction is involved in it, but in the act of offering the state of mind required is that of a worshipper. He comes to do, and not to learn. But it is a liturgical service; not a service for the people, but by the people. It is a mistake, therefore, when the minister puts the people in a passive relation, and addresses them as the spectators or attendants. He is but the leader of their act of worship, in which they remember Christ, lay hold of his promise, and devote themselves to him. All parts of the service should bear this character. Hence,

1. The introductory prayer should not be general, but specific.

2. The administration of the elements is a simple act, not to be connected with exhortations or instructions. How inappropriate is it to dwell at a feast on the proper mode of eating, or on the theory of digestion.

3. The concluding prayer also should be a thanksgiving for redemption. After the service, exhortations may be given.

III. Its benefits.

As the Lord’s Supper is a ξοινωνιϚα( koinonia) or communion, and as communion implies reciprocal action between two or more parties, there is a three–fold aspect of the service, or three parties engaged and present in this ordinance.

1. Christ.

2. Believers.

3. Fellow Christians. These are all parties, and are essential to the service.

1. Christ gives himself, his righteousness, his Spirit, and his salvation.

2. The believer receives Christ as the Son of God, as the incarnate God, as his wisdom, righteousness, sanctification and redemption. He engages,

(a) To renounce sin.

(b) To obey Christ.

(c) To devote himself to his service.

3. He communes with his fellow Christians.

(a) Recognizing them as Christians.

(b) Recognizing his union with them as joint members of Christ.

(c) Recognizing all the obligations of mutual love, forbearance and assistance arising out of this relation.

Topics to consider:—

1. Importance or value of this sacrament.

2. Motives to live according to our engagements.